Since the law was passed, dozens of same-sex couples were married, whilst hundreds of thousands more celebrated the fact that it was finally legal.
However, same-sex couples that tied the knot are now going to have to have their weddings annulled.
Upon announcing their decision, the high court issued a statement saying: ‘The Marriage Act does not now provide for the formation or recognition of marriage between same-sex couples. The Marriage Act provides that a marriage can be solemnised in Australia only between a man and a woman. That Act is a comprehensive and exhaustive statement of the law of marriage.’
There are around 30 couples who have got married since the law came into place just under two weeks ago. Ivan Hinton and Chris Teoh, who were married on Saturday, have said they will still consider themselves married despite the fact that their vows will no longer be legally recognised. Mr Hinton said that he did not regret getting married and will always consider Mr Teoh his husband. He said: “This was an unprecedented and historic opportunity. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”
Last year, Prime Minister Tony Abbot blocked two federal bills that would have allowed recognition of same-sex partnerships.
